By Ishmael von Heidrick-Barnes

Die Frage (The Question)

When asked
where you are from
say     Montreal    Mexico   Brazil

Don’t tell the truth
unless you have the balls to take the lies your country has slapped across their faces

Be prepared for questions
you cannot answer

They know more about you
than you know yourself

If they had given up on friendship
they wouldn’t say anything

If you claim ignorance
they’ll throw the book at you
You might be surprised to find your name on it
They will point to the trees
where your grandfathers hung their families
for similar omissions

The punch
will take your breath away

I suggest you take it
Take it back
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Ishmael von Heidrick-Barnes

Ishmael von Heidrick-Barnes was born and raised in San Diego, California. He attended Herbert Hoover High School and went on to study Religion and Theology at the University of San Diego. His book Intimate Geography, published by Ragged Sky Press, won the 2012 San Diego Book Award for Poetry. Ish, as he is known, has also written lyrics for German musicians Andrea Hörkens and Thomas Roderburg (Tender Art).

Latest posts by Ishmael von Heidrick-Barnes (see all)

• Word’s Out | Geo-Poetic Spaces - December 14, 2018
• Political Love Affair | Geo-Poetic Spaces - December 7, 2018
• Deer Tracks | Geo-Poetic Spaces - November 30, 2018